After 25 years, Centro closes its doors

Shortly after learning of Colborne Lane’s impending closure, we were notified that the legendary Centro is closing after 25 years in business. The restaurant had seen some of the city’s most famous chefs pass through its kitchen, including Chris McDonald, Michael Bonacini, Marc Thuet and David Lee.

“It’s sad, it’s the end of an era,” says co-owner Armando Mano.

But all is not lost. Mano tells us that he’s opening up a new restaurant in Centro’s space, one that will be geared towards a completely different demographic. He hasn’t revealed the name of the new place yet, but it will serve rustic Italian cuisine at significantly lower price points than Centro (mains will not exceed $27, compared to $36-$48).

Mano is hiring nearly all new staff (the executive chef, Symon Abad, will remain, as will the general manager), and he’s completely redoing the interior and exterior of the space. 

“You’d never know Centro was here,” he says.

The new restaurant is expected to open in mid-April. 

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